An arm and a leg

PHOTOGRAPHY is always perceived to be expensive. While it’s not entirely true, yes, there are skyrocketing price tags for some cameras and lenses. However, you have to understand that in photography, the quality always speaks its price. I think that the decision to buy the expensive ones is critical in your journey in photography.

There is always the question of whether to buy an entry-level camera and lenses, or to go with the mid-level set. There’s always the option to buy pro-level equipment if money is not an issue. But if you’re still starting in photography, whether you choose to buy an entry-level or pro-camera, your output will almost always be the same.

The pro camera being expensive has features that are made for professionals for them to do their work more efficiently and effectively. By efficiently, I’m referring to the speed and quick functions for you to take your shots in split seconds. It is more of a reliability issue.

POCKET WIZARD. This remote trigger costs five times more than the entry level remote. All for the benefit of reliability. It’s pricey alright, but it definitely lessens the stress in the set and builds your reputation, too.

All entry level cameras with kit lenses are capable of getting really good images. Maybe not as good as the pro ones, but the difference is not that much. The difference even becomes indiscernible when viewed by an untrained eye. What’s surprising is majority of people not involved in photography can’t tell the difference. That includes the client.

I’d encourage newbies to spend more time in putting yourself out there and challenge yourself to shoot better photos every time you go out. Getting a better camera won’t make you a better photographer, maybe it will make you cooler to look at, but yeah, only to those who know about the camera.

I started buying the more expensive equipment when my entry-level equipment started to fail me during my paid shoots. When you start to bill your client, there’s responsibility and obligation that comes with the service. Your entry-level equipment will work most of the time but the moment it fails, you’ll miss your shot that the client wants and that’s not being professional.

One time, I was tasked to shoot a VIP and I was just given five minutes to take my shot. Of course, I arrived early to setup my lights and find the right angle before the VIP steps in. I even planned the shoot days before. Everything was in place until the client stepped into the set and my remote strobes went crazy.

I have to troubleshoot the problem while the client waits. Pressured with time, I was able to solve the problem. It was caused by the entry level wireless sync that I still used back then. I was left with a minute to shoot and I didn’t like the idea of facing the same situation in my future shoots.

This is when you get the most out of the expensive equipment. They’re reliable and give you a smoother performance. They’re made to do a lot of work day in and day out. Something that will protect your reputation as a professional photographer. Keep on shooting, everyone!